STMicroelectronics ST25DV16KC-IE8S3

Overview

ST25DV16KC-IE8S3 from STMicroelectronics is a dynamic NFC/RFID tag IC with dual I²C and ISO/IEC 15693 contactless interfaces, 16-Kbit EEPROM (2048 bytes via I²C / 512 blocks × 4 bytes via RF), 1 MHz I²C support, 1.8–5.5 V supply, and NFC Forum Type 5 certification. It enables secure, battery-free data exchange in smart labels, asset tracking tags, and industrial maintenance logs.

For engineers reviewing the ST25DV16KC-IE8S3 datasheet, ST25DV16KC-IE8S3 pinout, ST25DV16KC-IE8S3 application, or ST25DV16KC-IE8S3 equivalent, key selection criteria include RF/I²C fast transfer mode (256-byte mailbox), configurable GPO interrupt behavior, energy harvesting analog output (V_EH), and multi-level password protection across four user memory areas.

Technical Context

The device implements a dual-interface architecture where I²C provides deterministic wired access to byte-addressable EEPROM, while RF operates per ISO/IEC 15693 with block-addressed (4-byte) reads/writes and full protocol compliance including all subcarrier modes and data rates up to 53 Kbit/s. Its internal 28.5 pF tuning capacitance simplifies antenna matching.

Memory is partitioned into user EEPROM (2048 bytes), dynamic registers, a 256-byte volatile fast-transfer buffer (mailbox), and protected system configuration space containing UID, AFI, DSFID, and five 64-bit password registers. Protection is enforced separately for RF and I²C paths using distinct 64-bit passwords per user area.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ST25DV16KC-IE8S3 is supplied in SO8N (8-pin narrow SOIC) package with open-drain GPO output and exposed pad (EP). Pin functions are validated per STMicroelectronics DS13519 Rev 8 (pages 3–4).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dynamic NFC tag applications.

Compared with ST25DV04KC-IE8S3, this part doubles memory and retains full backward-compatible pinout and command structure; versus NT3H2201, it adds energy harvesting, faster RF throughput, and robust dual-interface coherency - critical for industrial edge deployments requiring offline I²C updates and battery-free sensing.

Availability

ST25DV16KC-IE8S3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart industrial labels, secure asset tracking tags, energy-harvesting sensor nodes, and medical device calibration tokens requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for ST25DV16KC-IE8S3 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, specializing in microcontrollers, power management, sensors, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The ST25DVxxKC series targets secure, maintenance-free identification and data logging in harsh environments - designed specifically for applications demanding simultaneous wired configurability and contactless interrogation without local power.

FAQ

What is the function of the V_EH pin and how is it used in system design?

The V_EH pin delivers an unregulated analog voltage derived from the RF field strength, enabling battery-free operation of external components like sensors or comparators. It enters high-impedance state when the RF field is absent or below threshold, and its output voltage scales with coupling efficiency and reader power. Designers must condition this signal with external regulation or clamping before connecting to sensitive analog inputs.

How does the fast transfer mode buffer operate between I²C and RF interfaces?

The 256-byte volatile buffer acts as a mailbox: data written via I²C is instantly available for RF read commands, and RF-written data appears immediately on I²C reads - bypassing EEPROM wear and write latency. This enables real-time synchronization, such as updating a display via I²C while allowing field technicians to scan current status via NFC, without committing to non-volatile memory until final validation.

Can the GPO pin be configured to signal both RF and I²C events simultaneously?

Yes - the GPO pin supports mixed-event triggering: for example, it can assert on RF field detection *and* de-assert upon completion of an I²C write sequence. Configuration is done via dynamic registers (GPO_CTRL and GPO_EVENT_MASK), allowing logical OR/AND combinations of up to eight event sources including RF activity, memory write, fast transfer, and I²C stop condition. Default behavior is RF field change detection.

What are the memory protection mechanisms and how are passwords managed?

Four user memory areas can be individually protected for read and/or write access using three 64-bit RF passwords and one 64-bit I²C password. Passwords are stored in dedicated EEPROM blocks within the system configuration area and are write-protected by a separate 64-bit configuration password. All passwords are factory-initialized to zero and must be programmed securely during provisioning - no default or backdoor access exists once set.